What is the recommended dosage for Iron?

General: 18 mg/day (women); Deficiency: 65-200 mg elemental iron/day

What are the side effects of Iron?

Potential side effects include: Constipation (most common), Nausea and stomach cramps, Dark or black stools, Iron overload with excessive supplementation (hemochromatosis risk).

Does iron supplementation help with hair loss?

Iron supplementation may support hair regrowth when hair loss is caused by iron deficiency, which is one of the most common nutritional causes of hair shedding, particularly in women. A serum ferritin level below 30 ng/mL is associated with increased hair loss risk. Supplementation in iron-replete individuals has not shown consistent benefits for hair growth.

What form of iron is best absorbed for hair health?

Ferrous bisglycinate and ferrous sulfate are among the most bioavailable forms of iron supplements. Ferrous bisglycinate tends to cause fewer gastrointestinal side effects. Absorption is enhanced when taken with vitamin C and on an empty stomach. Avoid taking iron with calcium, tea, or coffee, as these can inhibit absorption.

How long does it take for iron to improve hair loss?

Replenishing iron stores typically takes 3 to 6 months with consistent supplementation, and hair regrowth may follow once ferritin levels reach an adequate range. Research suggests targeting a serum ferritin level above 70 ng/mL for optimal hair follicle function. Regular blood work is recommended to monitor progress and avoid iron overload.

What iron level is needed to stop hair loss?

Research suggests that serum ferritin — the iron storage protein — may need to reach at least 40 to 70 ng/mL to support normal hair cycling, although the threshold is debated in the literature. The Grade A (Strong) evidence from 73 studies with 30,034 participants for iron deficiency hair loss indicates that correcting deficiency consistently improves hair outcomes. Standard reference ranges for ferritin (above 12-15 ng/mL) may still be sub-optimal for hair health.

Can iron supplementation help with postpartum hair loss?

Evidence for iron specifically in postpartum hair loss is Preliminary (Grade D), based on 2 studies with 1,729 participants. Postpartum hair loss is primarily driven by hormonal shifts after delivery rather than iron deficiency alone, though iron depletion from pregnancy and blood loss during delivery is common. Checking ferritin levels postpartum is advisable — if deficiency is confirmed, iron supplementation may help support hair recovery alongside natural hormonal normalization.

Iron

mineral

Also known as: Ferrous sulfate, Ferrous gluconate, Iron bisglycinate

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About

Iron is an essential mineral required for hemoglobin synthesis and oxygen delivery to rapidly dividing hair follicle matrix cells. Iron deficiency, even without frank anemia, is strongly associated with diffuse hair loss, particularly in premenopausal women.

How It Works

Essential for hemoglobin synthesis; iron deficiency impairs oxygen delivery to hair follicle matrix cells.

Evidence For Conditions

Condition	Grade	Studies	Participants
Iron Deficiency Hair Loss	A	73	30034	View →
Telogen Effluvium	B	62	11072	View →
Postpartum Hair Loss	D	2	1729	View →

Side Effects

Constipation (most common)
Nausea and stomach cramps
Dark or black stools
Iron overload with excessive supplementation (hemochromatosis risk)

Drug & Supplement Interactions

Calcium supplements and dairy (reduce iron absorption by 50-60%)
Proton pump inhibitors (omeprazole) and H2 blockers reduce absorption
Tetracycline and quinolone antibiotics (mutual absorption reduction)
Levothyroxine (iron reduces thyroid hormone absorption)

Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take.

Related Ingredients

Selenium Silica (Silicon) Zinc

Quick Facts

Dosage: General: 18 mg/day (women); Deficiency: 65-200 mg elemental iron/day
Forms: capsule tablet liquid
Natural Sources: Red meat, Spinach, Lentils, Fortified cereals, Oysters
Upper Limit: 45 mg/day
Best Time: On an empty stomach with vitamin C for best absorption; take 2 hours apart from calcium

Evidence Summary

Iron Deficiency Hair Loss A

Telogen Effluvium B

Postpartum Hair Loss D

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.